Yes costs are definitely an issue. There have been cases where the court has paid for psychologists reports, but I think that is rare and it may be a not very good psychologist! A top one costs about 20k. I think average is 6 or 7k. I wouldn't pay for private therapy for your son though - that is something that the court frowns on - it needs to be court ordered therapy by an impartial therapist - not one chosen by either parent. Also it might make things worse for your son if he's living with his Mother while having it - she will still pressurise him (and possibly the therapist too).
Has she got any "evidence" of you being angry? Like have you sent her any nasty threatening texts or emails? We all get angry sometimes - and that's normal during a break up. But yes with court, you can be painted as "possibly aggressive". Hopefully she doesn't have anything like that. If she has, you will see her evidence and allegations before you have to respond to them so you can prepare responses and be straight and say - yes I was angry on that occasion and lost patience with attempts to try and see my children. I have realised since that there is a need for both parents to try to be more co-operative for the sake of the children. That kind of thing. Your evidence can also include some polite, blindingly reasonable emails from you and some nasty ones from her. Showing her attitude. Which she has shown the court already it seems!
Sometimes asking for psychologists reports is more of a "threat" if the other side are asking for a fact find. During negotiations and so on before the hearing. That might make the solicitor from the other side back down a bit realising their client really is bonkers and probably alienating. Also even if you ask for them, you're not committed. The court might say yes we can order psychologists reports, but only if you pay for them. Then it's up to you - you don't have to go ahead. It's kind of being a bit on the attack rather than always on the defence. Which is something a lawyer can do but an LIP can't really - without looking aggressive!
I'm not sure it's necessary but mention it to your barrister.
Has she got any "evidence" of you being angry? Like have you sent her any nasty threatening texts or emails? We all get angry sometimes - and that's normal during a break up. But yes with court, you can be painted as "possibly aggressive". Hopefully she doesn't have anything like that. If she has, you will see her evidence and allegations before you have to respond to them so you can prepare responses and be straight and say - yes I was angry on that occasion and lost patience with attempts to try and see my children. I have realised since that there is a need for both parents to try to be more co-operative for the sake of the children. That kind of thing. Your evidence can also include some polite, blindingly reasonable emails from you and some nasty ones from her. Showing her attitude. Which she has shown the court already it seems!
Sometimes asking for psychologists reports is more of a "threat" if the other side are asking for a fact find. During negotiations and so on before the hearing. That might make the solicitor from the other side back down a bit realising their client really is bonkers and probably alienating. Also even if you ask for them, you're not committed. The court might say yes we can order psychologists reports, but only if you pay for them. Then it's up to you - you don't have to go ahead. It's kind of being a bit on the attack rather than always on the defence. Which is something a lawyer can do but an LIP can't really - without looking aggressive!
I'm not sure it's necessary but mention it to your barrister.